Rappahannock Dam #4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rappahannock Dam #4, located in Rappahannock, Virginia, is a state-regulated dam with a height of 17 feet and a storage capacity of 70.04 acre-feet.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and lack of condition assessment rating, the dam is regularly inspected and meets state regulatory standards for safety and operation.

Constructed by the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Rappahannock Dam #4 serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water storage. The dam's strategic location along the Rappahannock River ensures that it plays a key role in protecting downstream communities from potential flooding events. With a length of 350 feet and a normal storage capacity of 58 acre-feet, this dam is an essential component of the region's water resource and climate resilience infrastructure.

Although specifics about the dam's construction year and design details are not provided, Rappahannock Dam #4's significance lies in its ability to regulate water flow, store water for various purposes, and mitigate flood risks in the area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Rappahannock Dam #4 is crucial for appreciating the interconnectedness of water management, infrastructure development, and environmental conservation in the region.

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

17

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

70.04

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.